Current Literature Review on Sexual Health and Function
January 2013
in “
The Journal of Sexual Medicine
”
TLDR The document suggests that finasteride may cause depression and suicidal thoughts, while prostate surgery does not harm sexual health.
The document reviews several studies related to sexual health and function. One study with 92 patients found no significant difference in pain during intercourse when compared to a control group, but the study had design issues. Another study with 20 hypogonadal patients showed a significant increase in circulating endothelial cells (CECs) compared to 10 healthy subjects, but the method for counting CECs was unreliable. A third study with 61 former finasteride users found a significant increase in depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts compared to 29 controls, suggesting a severe psychological impact of the drug. Lastly, a 12-year prospective cohort study with 280 men and 145 partners indicated that transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) did not negatively affect sexual activity or health.
